With the end of January in sight, winter is in full swing here in Manitoba. And while we are finally enjoying a bit of a break in the weather, several large snow dumps, high wind white outs, and -40 days with the wind-chill have been all too common. The department of Health, Seniors and Active Living recently released a primer on cold weather safety, the contents of which are very helpful for anyone who lives in Manitoba during winter.
Dressing responsibly for our low prairie temperature is very important, especially when exposure to the freezing cold can result in life-threatening health problems such as frostbite or hypothermia. Anyone who isn’t dressed for cold weather is at risk, although health risks are greatest for: seniors, infants, young children, people with chronic illnesses, newcomers to Canada, people who are homeless, or transient, people living in homes that are poorly insulated, outdoor workers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Stay warm by: dressing in multiple layers and covering exposed skin, wearing wool, silk or polypropylene inner layers of clothing (as they hold more body heat than cotton), wearing waterproof and windproof outer layers, choosing warm mittens instead of gloves.
Winterize your vehicle by keeping your gas tank full, using winter tires and keeping a well-stocked winter safety kit in vehicles, which you can find more information online. If stranded, remain in your vehicle if possible until help is available. Avoid driving or traveling by car in bad weather or when roads are very slippery. Make sure to also check road conditions before departing by calling Manitoba Highways at 511 or visiting manitoba511.ca. Some cold weather safety practices include: checking on neighbours, friends and older family members regularly, especially those who are ill or living alone, never leaving infants and young children unattended, ensuring they are dressed appropriately, having a buddy when enjoying winter weather activities who can offer immediate assistance in an emergency, and avoiding alcohol consumption before going out in the cold as alcohol increases the risk of hypothermia by contributing to heat loss.
Symptoms to be aware of for cold-related illness include: discoloured skin (whitish, yellow, grey, or blistered), tingling, burning sensation or numbness to exposed areas, and uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness or exhaustion, confusion, or slurred speech. Infants may have very low energy and bright red cold skin. A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and may not seem to have a pulse or to be breathing. If emergency medical care is needed for someone who may have frostbite or hypothermia, move them to a warm place if possible and call for help.
If you have any further questions regarding cold weather safety, please visit gov.mb.ca.
